"Like all the other Chinese-language textbooks produced over the years by C. P. Chou and his capable colleagues and collaborators, this is a work of extremely high quality. No one in the field of Chinese pedagogy can rival Chou's skill, expertise, and experience. First Step is an outstanding, student-friendly primer of beginning Chinese."--James M. Hargett, University at Albany, State University of New York

"An excellent textbook for this level of Chinese instruction, First Step reveals the authors' experience, knowledge, and thoroughness in teaching this difficult language."--Qiusha Ma, Oberlin College

"The materials in this book are up-to-date, bold, and lively. Professors, teachers, and instructors will find First Step both useful and a source of inspiration."--Yin Chong (Zhuang Yan), Boston University